The Sports Ledger Summer 2018

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The Sports Ledger

WHAT’S INSIDE THIS ISSUE • • • • • •

Ledger Leaders College Football NFL Draft Graduation SSCC Awards Ledbetter Retires

Ledger Leader Coach of the Year

FPHS Names New Coach

The Fort Payne High School football program will have a new coach this fall. According to reports, the Wildcats have hired Chris Elmore to lead the FPHS football team.

Elmore is replacing former coach Paul Ellis, who spent 14 years leading the program. Ellis resigned to become coach at LaFayette High School.

Elmore is a 1999 graduate of FPHS.

Photo by Brandon K. Pierce, The Sports Ledger

Logano Wins in Talladega

Joey Logano took time to sign a toy car for a fan during race weekend in Talladega. Logano took the checkered flag on Sunday, April 29. It was his 3rd win in Talladega.

AVIATION COLLEGE Albertville Mayor Tracy Honea discusses Snead State Community College’s new Aviation Program that is located at the Albertville airport.

The college plans to teach both Powerplant and Airframe. For more about the aviation program see Page 8.

Photo by Brandon K. Pierce, The Sports Ledger

GRADUATION Time

Crossville seniors (L-R) Katelyn Drain, Kaitlyn Eakes, Gracie Mae Walker, Josie Hughes and Macy Pointer show off their caps and gowns during senior picture day.

See the inside of this issue for more 2018 graduation information.

By Brandon K. Pierce The Sports Ledger Being a coach is more then just knowing what play to call or which athletes should be in the starting lineup. It’s more about leading, guiding and encouraging young men and women to work together as a team to become better both on and off the playing surface.

This past year one local coach achieved that goal and much more as he led the Plainview Bears to the Class 3A State Championship. For his efforts, Robi Coker has been named the 2018 Ledger Leader Coach of the Year “I feel extremely blessed to be in this circle with such an outstanding group of young men,” said Coker “A group of guys that sacrificed personal ambition for the betterment of the team in such a selfless manner. They

Coach Robi Coker really enjoyed one another and exemplified our “Band of Brothers” mantra throughout the course of the season. They’re extremely competitive and men of grit who figured out a way to win. They deserve all the glory and honors they have received.”

Plainview shattered the AHSAA record for 3-point shots attempted and made this season and it seemed only fitting that the Bears would sink a trey to win its first-ever ASHAA state basketball championship. _Continued on Page11

PAGE TWO

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May 2018

The Truth About Sports Scholarships

Don’t Stop Now, Keep Moving Sometime ago it was my privilege to be the commencement speaker at a high school graduation. At the end of the service, the students came forward and walked up to the headmaster to receive their diplomas. As he shook their hands, he looked into their eyes and said softly to each one of them, “Don’t stop now, keep moving forward!”

Great advice – not only for the graduates but for everyone, every day. Whatever we do, wherever we go, we must keep moving forward.

We must keep forgiving! Keep growing! Keep helping! Keep loving! Keep witnessing! Keep serving!

Keep worshipping! Keep working! Keep laughing! Keep moving forward!

If this is important for life in general, it is even more important for the life of a Christian. Paul said that “I keep working toward that day when I will finally be all that Christ Jesus saved me for and wants me to be.”

What great advice he offers us. Nothing should ever interfere with nor take our eyes off of knowing Christ.

We must focus on Him the same way athletes focus on winning a race because nothing else matters.

Courtesy Larry Guido, Seeds of Hope

By Bob Gardner, Executive Director (NFHS) and Steve Savarese, Executive Director (AHSAA)

Many parents are trying to live the dream through their sons and daughters – the dream of landing a college athletic scholarship by specializing in a sport yearround. Unfortunately, most of these dreams are never realized.

The odds of a sports scholarship paying for even a portion of a student’s college education are miniscule.

The College Board, a not-for-profit organization comprised of 6,000 of the world’s leading educational institutions, reports that a moderate cost for college students who attend a public university in their state of residence is $25,290 per year. The annual cost at a private college averages $50,900.

Meanwhile, the most recent data from the NCAA reveals that the average Division I athletic scholarship is worth only $10,400. More significantly, the same study shows that fewer than two percent of all high school athletes (1 in 54) ever Bob Gardner wear the uniform of an NCAA Division I school.

Even if the dream is realized, parents likely will spend more money for club sports than they ever regain through college athletic scholarships. Thanks to the costs of club fees, equipment, summer camps, playing in out-of-state tournaments and private coaching, youth sports has become a $15 billion-per-year industry.

There is an option, and it’s a financially viable one: Encourage your sons and daughters to play sports at their high school.

In education-based high school sports, student-athletes are taught, as the term implies, that grades come first.

The real-life lessons that students experientially learn offer insights into leadership, overcoming adversity and mutual respect that cannot be learned anywhere else. Unlike club sports, coaches in an education-based school setting are held accountable by the guiding principles and goals of their school district. And the cost of participating in high school sports is minimal in most cases.

While there is a belief that the only way to get noticed by college coaches is to play on non-school travel teams year-round, many Division I football and basketball coaches recently have stated that they are committed to recruiting students who have played multiple sports within the high school setting.

In addition, by focusing on academics while playing sports within the school setting, students can earn scholarships for academics and other talents—skill sets oftentimes nurtured while participating in high school activities.

These scholarships are more accessible and worth more money than athletic scholarships. While $3 billion per year is available for athletic scholarships, more than $11 billion is awarded for academic scholarships and other financial assistance.

Without a doubt, your sons and daughters will have more fun, make more friends and be better prepared for life beyond sport by participating in multiple sports and activities offered by the high school in your community.

May 2018

COMMUNITY NEWS MAYBERRY MEMORIES - Town of Valley Head

will be the site of Memories of Mayberry on June 2, 2018.

The day of fun begins at 9 a.m. and will include a cruisein, great food, lots of fun, live entertainment, door prizes and more. Characters from Mayberry will be featured. All proceeds to benefit the Valley Head Fire Department.

GLOW GOLF TOURNAMENT - There will

be a Chip in for Cheer 3-man scramble Glow Golf Tournament on Saturday May 19. The event will be held at the Twin Lakes Golf Course in Arab at 5 p.m. The cost is a $100 per person. There will be prizes for 1st place, 2nd place, closest to the pin, and longest drive. For more information or to register, please call 256-298-9614 or 256-738-2800. In case of rain, the event will be June 2.

PLAINVIEW GRADUATION - The Class of

2018 at Plainview High School will be graduating on May 21 at 7.p.m. Graduation will be held at the DeKalb County School’s Coliseum.

5K RUN - The Chick-Fil-A Race of North Alabama will

be held on May 19, 2018 at 8 a.m. All proceeds from the race will benefit the Winshape Camps for Communities and FCA Camps.

FORT PAYNE GRADUATION - The Class of 2018 at Fort Payne High School will be graduating on May 24 at 7.p.m. at Wildcat Stadium. Fort Payne’s Class night is May 22 at 7 p.m. in the schools gymnasium.

HYDROFEST - Boat racing returns to Lake

Guntersville on June 22-24 for the 2018 Hydrofest.

The weekend will feature the H1 Unlimiteds, the Grand Prix World hydros, stock outboard demos as well as a Wakeboard Exhibition.

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NACC REGISTRATION - Summer Semester

Registration at Northeast Alabama Community College is going on now. Early registration has begun by appointment for all students. Regular registration is Wednesday, May 30, 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Registration will end on Friday, June 1. Classes will begin on Thursday, May 31.

Classes are conveniently offered on campus and online. For all class offerings go to the NACC website or the college’s mobile App. Tuition is only $148 per semester hour for summer, Go to www.fafsa.ed.gov to complete a free student financial aid application.

HIGHWAY 11 YARD SALE - The US 11

Antique Alley Yard Sale is set for May 17-20, 2018.

This epic annual event is always the four-day weekend (Thursday – Sunday) after Mother’s Day in May. Follow scenic U.S. Highway 11 on the backroads of Appalachia for 502 miles of sales from Meridian, Mississippi to Bristol, Virgina.

GUNTERSVILLE GRADUATION - The Class

of 2018 at Guntersville High School will be graduating on May 18 at 7 p.m. at GHS. The Guntersville graduates will receive their awards during a senior night on May 17 at 6 p.m. Baccalaureate service is set for May 16 at the Guntersville First United Methodist Church at 7 p.m.

RHODODENDRON FESTIVAL - The 2018

Rhododendron Festival will be held on May 19-20 in Mentone, AL. Local musicians, cloggers, storytellers, arts of all mediums, horse drawn carriage rides, pony rides, scenic boat tours of Little River, and a “Taste of Mentone” are some of the things you can expect from this year’s festival. The event is held annually during the third weekend of May.

ROD RUN - The 10th Annual Cody Renfroe Rod Run is set for May 12, 2018 at Crossville City Park.

PAGE THREE

NASA Director is SSCC Graduation Speaker The Director of NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville will serve as the 2018 Commencement ceremony speaker at Snead State Community College.

Todd May will address the SSCC graduates on Thursday, May 10, at 5 p.m. at the Plunkett Wallace Gymnasium.

Mr. May heads one of NASA’s largest field installations, with nearly

Todd May 6,000 on and near-site civil service and contractor employees.

NACC To Hold Adult Education Graduation The Northeast Alabama Adult Education Program will have its annual Adult Education Graduation for recipients of the GED® credential and the Non-Traditional High School Diploma on Wednesday, May 16, 2018, at 7 p.m. at the Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Center in Rainsville. The graduation will honor all GED® and Non-Traditional High School Diploma recipients from DeKalb, Jackson and Marshall Counties.

Through adult education, many individuals have had the opportunity to get a high school equivalency credential, which has enabled them to secure or upgrade their employment or attend college or career training.

The Adult Education Graduation ceremony is one way to express congratulations to those students who have worked so hard to accomplish their goals.

Any adult (including those who did not attend adult education classes) who has successfully completed the GED® Test or received a Non-Traditional High School Diploma and has not previously participated in a graduation is invited to be a part of this ceremony, but preregistration is required. All family and friends are also welcome to attend the graduation. Those interested in participating in the Adult Education Graduation or anyone needing more information should contact the Northeast Alabama Adult Education Program at 256-638-2957 or 256-228-0021.

The Northeast Alabama Adult Education Program is operated and managed by Northeast Alabama Community College. The program is located on campus in the W. M. Beck HFA Building, Room 219. The director of the program is Mr. Kip Williamson and may be contacted at 256-638-4418 or 256-228-6001, ext. 2253, or by email at williamsonk@nacc.edu.

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May 2018

Class of 2018 Snapshots

Photos by Brandon K. Pierce

May 2018

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PAGE FIVE

Photo by Brandon K. Pierce, The Sports Ledger

Crossville Class of 2018

The Crossville High School Senior Class of 2018 will be graduating over 100 students on May 22 at 6 p.m. during a ceremony at DeKalb County Schools Coliseum.

Other events include Senior Awards Night on May 15 at 6 p.m. and Baccalaureate Service on Sunday May 16 at 6 p.m. in the new Crossville gym.

Luther Named Ledger Leader

Crossville junior Jay Luther has been named as a 2018 Ledger Leader.

He is a three sport athlete playing basketball, football and baseball. Luther also has a perfect 4.0 GPA and is in the top 10 in his class.

Crossville did not have a female athlete with a qualifying GPA.

PAGE SIX

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May 2018

McKinney and Kilgro are Ledger Leaders Collinsville's Mason McKinney has been named a 2018 Ledger Leader.

McKinney is a three sport star for the Panthers, playing Baseball, Football, and Basketball. In 2018 he earned Athletic Honors as an All-County Football and All-Area Football player.

McKinney is also an honor roll member. He is a member of the Collinsville Beta Club, FCCLA, FCA, FBLA and the Collinsville Baptist Church Youth Group.

Collinsville High School Classmate Kallie Kilgro is also a Leger Leader and Basketball star for the Lady Panthers.

She was an All-County Basketball player in 2017 and 2018, as well and a member of the All-Area Team in 2017. In addition to basketball, she plays softball at Collinsville.

Academically, Kilgro is also an honor roll student. She is involved in Beta Club, FCCLA, Teens Together, and SADD.

Mason McKinney

Kallie Kilgro

Photo Courtesy of Cory Wills

Class 2A Area 12 Champions

The Collinsville Lady Panther varsity softball team recently won the Class 2A Area 12 championship. Team members include: L-R (Front) Kayla Beene, Sarah Patton, Kallie Kilgro, Maggie McKinney, Abigail Ford, Nenneha McKinney, Sophia Wills, Rylee Tillery, Sydney Skelton; (Back) Caroline Brannon, Hannah Glenn, Katie Plunkett, Emily Thrower, Brittany Rivera, Jillian Ford, Autumn Barkley, Courtney Baine, and Lily Wills.

Collinsville Graduation The Collinsville High School Senior Class of 2018 will be graduating on May 21 at 6 p.m. during a ceremony at Gadsden State Cherokee in Centre.

Photos by Brandon K. Pierce, The Sports Ledger

May 2018

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PAGE SEVEN

Geraldine Graduation The Geraldine High School Senior Class of 2018 will be graduating on May 24 at 7 p.m. during a ceremony at Coolidge Isbell Football Field. Other events include Senior Night on May 22 at 6 p.m. in the Wendell Nix Gym and Baccalaureate Service on Sunday May 20 at 2 p.m. at Geraldine First Baptist Church.

DETERMINED

Photo by Brandon K. Pierce, The Sports Ledger

- Geraldine’s Destiny Lambert looks determined to get a hit for the Lady Bulldogs.

GOOD CITIZEN

Makayla Odom is the 2018 DAR Good Citizen at GHS.

MR & MRS GERALDINE - GHS Seniors

Kaycee Powell and Jesse Pittman have been named Mr. and Mrs. Geraldine for the Class of 2018.

GerALDINE Class of 2018

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May 2018

Noah Groves is Ledger Leader

Photos by Brandon K. Pierce, The Sports Ledger

Snead State adds aviation program in Albertville

Snead State Community College is now offering a chance for students to learn aviation skills that can lead to a high paying career and a chance to work anywhere in the world. These skills are available through the college’s new Aviation program taught at the Albertville Airport Campus. Through this program students can learn Airframe Technology and Powerplant Technology, once approval is finalized by the FAA . The Airframe program teaches students how to repair everything but the engine and Powerplant teaches the skills needed to repair engines. Full-time students may be able to complete the required courses in one to two years. The hands-on and classroom course work will also prepare students to successfully complete the FAA exam for an A&P license. Some of those showing support for Snead State’s Aviation program are (L-R) Marlin Priest, Pioneer Aviation Management; Senator Clay Scofield; Dr. Robert Exley, President of Snead State Community College; Dan Owen, Director of SSCC Aviation Program; Representative David Standridge; Former Representative Frank McDaniel; Representative Kerry Rich; and Albertville Mayor Tracy Honea.

Albertville High School Junior Noah Groves has been named a 2018 Ledger Leader by The Sports Ledger. Groves is a two sport athlete for the Aggies, playing both varsity football and golf.

Additionally, he is a member of the CenterStage Show Choir and a Special Education Assistant. Noah is in the top 10% of his class. He has been voted Most Talented by his classmates and selected as a class favorite.

He is a member of the National Honor Society and the Student Government Association.

Noah also Volunteers with his church youth group and he has been

Noah Groves on mission trips to South Carolina and Nashville.

As a junior Noah has already had early acceptance to UAB and he plans to play football in college.

May 2018

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Fleming named Ledger Leader

Albertville High School junior Carlee Fleming has been selected as a 2018 Ledger Leader.

Fleming is a two sport star at Albertville, playing Varsity Softball and Junior Varsity Volleyball. She is a member of the National Honor Society, Aggie Pals, Student Government, and HOSA. She is also in the top 10% of her class.

Outside of school, she is active in the community.

Fleming is a Volunteer for Blessings in a Backpack and Christmas Coalition.

Additionally, she is a member of Solitude Baptist Church, where she has participated in yearly mission trips with the church youth group.

PAGE NINE

High School Sports Snapshots

By Brandon K. Pierce

Crossville vs. Scottsboro Girls Softball

Carlee Fleming

ALBERTVILLE GRADUATION

The Class of 2018 at Albertville High School will be graduating on May 18 at 6:30.p.m. Graduation will be held on McCord Field. Other senior events include Baccalaureate at 6:30 p.m. on May 16 at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church and Senior Awards Night on May 10 in the Fine Arts Centers at 6 p.m.

Geraldine Softball

Albertville vs. Douglas Girls Soccer

PAGE TEN

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May 2018

Talladega is not the same without Dale Earnhardt, Jr.

By Myra W. Pierce The Sports Ledger Talladega is an exciting place to spend the weekend and race fans from all over the country spend hours interacting with the drivers and other fans. The 2.66 miles of excitement for NASCAR fans of all ages and the 2018 spring race weekend at the Superspeedway was no exception.

Thousands of fans flocked to Talladega as early as Thursday of race week to tailgate and see their favorite driver in

hopes that they have the “big win” at NASCAR’s fastest track.

Talladega is considered the home track for one driver in particular and one of the most interesting signs of this was on a fans pickup truck tailgate that read “Where’s Dale” painted in bold letters. Of course, this is referring to Dale Earnhardt, Jr. This is his first season since his retirement to not be inside a race car in Talladega.

Several other former legendary drivers such as Jeff Gordon, Danica

Patrick and Tony Stewart were also not driving in this race.

However, many other drivers are continuing the traditions and driving toward their big win at the Talladega Superspeedway.

This includes 2018 Monster Energy Geico 500 race winner Joey Logano, who picked up his third career victory at the track.

However, despite the thrilling win, wild wrecks, and everything that makes NASCAR in Talladega great, it’s still not the same without Dale, Jr.

Photo by Myra W. Pierce, The Sports Ledger

WHERE’S DALE? - A NASCAR fan’s truck displays how much some people missed Dale Earnhardt, Jr. during race weekend in Talladega.

Photo by Brandon K. Pierce, The Sports Ledger

PIT CREW AT WORK - The pit crew for Kevin Harvick and other drivers work to change tires and fill the cars with gas during the Geico 500 at Talladega.

May 2018

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PAGE ELEVEN

Coker: Ledger Leader

_Continued from Page 1

Plainview Junior Caden Millican, who earned State Tournament MVP honors for the Bears (34-2), took a feed from point guard Jeffery Armstrong in overtime and fired a 3-pointer as the final buzzer sounded to lift Plainview to a 78-85 overtime win over Hillcrest-Evergreen (23-4) in the Class 3A boys’ state championship game.

Millican finished with 37 points, sinking 6-of-10 3-pointers and going 9-of10 at the foul line.

Coker was no doubt proud of his team, but he is also proud of the support and help he has received at Plainview “Since we’ve been here, we’ve had phenomenal support from our administration, our faculty, our local

businesses, and our community. It takes a village to raise a child and it takes a community to build a program. I hope the people of Rainsville know how big a part they played in this special season,” said Coker.

“The guys that are most valuable that do not get the credit they deserve are our assistant coaches.

Stanley Williams, Cody Coots, and Brett Benefield do an excellent job and are invaluable to our program,” added Coker.

Coker has worked over the years to build the Bear’s program. In 20132014 Plainview finished the year with a 10-15 record. In 2014-2015 the Bears went 20-11, winning the DeKalb County Tournament Championship and participated in the Northeast Regional Tournament.

Photo by Brandon K. Pierce, The Sports Ledger

2017-18 CLASS 3A STATE CHAMPIONS

In 2015-2016 Coker guided the Bears to a 27-5 record and an appearance in the Elite Eight, including a 74-65 win over Piedmont

in the Northeast Regional semifinals, in what was the first five overtime game in AHSAA basketball playoff history.

The Bears were the 2017 State Semifinalist and finished the 2016-17 season with a 31-5 record.

During the season the team

won the Class 3A, Area 14 Championship, Northeast Regional Championship, and the Sand Mountain Tournament.

SYLVANIA CLASS OF 2018 - The Class of 2018 at Sylvania High School will be graduating on May 18 at 6.p.m in the school’s new gym. Sylvania’s senior class night is set for May 15 at 6 p.m. and the school’s awards day is May 11 at 10 a.m.

PAGE TWELVE

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May 2018

Alabama Football Has Successful Spring Season The Alabama football team concluded its spring season with the annual Golden Flake A-Day Game on Saturday, April 21 at Bryant-Denny Stadium. The Crimson team came out on top, 24-12, in front of 74,732 fans, the ninth-highest attended A-Day Game in program history.

Redshirt freshman quarterback Mac Jones and redshirt freshman placekicker Joseph Bulovas each shared the Dixie Howell Memorial Award (MVP of the A-Day Game). Jones finished the game connecting on 23of-35 passes for 289 yards and two touchdowns through the air. Meanwhile, Bulovas, who was the kicker for both the Crimson and White teams, finished the day connecting on 5-of-7 field goals, including netting 48 and 49 yard attempts.

Senior defensive lineman Raekwon Davis received the Dwight Stephenson Award (Most Valuable Lineman of the A-Day Game), after ending the contest with eight tackles and two sacks.

Sophomore Najee Harris led the rushing attack with 41 yards on 14 carries, while sophomore Devonta Smith was tops for the Tide in receiving, catching five passes for a game-high 87 yards.

On defense, sophomore Dylan Moses led both teams with a game-high 10 tackles, while sophomore LaBryan Ray had a game-best four tackles for loss, including two sacks.

The Crimson Tide will return to action in the season opener against Louisville on September 1, 2018 at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, FL. The Tide will return to Bryant Denny Stadium on September 8 when they welcome Arkansas State.

Alabama opens SEC play the following week at Ole Miss.

Pos.

Rd.

Pick

Team

Minkah Fitzpatrick

DB

1

11

Miami Dolphins

Da’Ron Payne

DL

1

13

Washington Redskins

Rashaan Evans

LB

1

22

Tennessee Titans

Calvin Ridley

WR

1

26

Atlanta Falcons

Ronnie Harrison

DB

3

93

Jacksonville Jaguars

Da’Shawn Hand

DL

4

114

Detroit Lions

Anthony Averett

DB

4

118

Baltimore Ravens

JK Scott

P

5

172

Green Bay Packers

Shaun Dion Hamilton

LB

6

197

Washington Redskins

Bradley Bozeman

C

6

215

Baltimore Ravens

Bo Scarbrough

RB

7

236

Dallas Cowboys

Joshua Frazier

DL

7

246

Pittsburgh Steelers

August 25 September 1 September 8 September 15 September 22 September 29 October 6 October 13 October 20 October 27 November 3 November 10 November 17

NC A&T Montgomery, AL OPEN Miss Valley St. Jacksonville 6 p.m.

OPEN Tennessee Tech Jacksonville 6 p.m.

Austin Peay Jacksonville 3 p.m. @ E. Kentucky Richmond, KY Eastern Illinois Jacksonville 3 p.m. @ SE Missouri Cape Girardeau, MO @ Murray State Murray, KY UT Martin Jacksonville 1 p.m. @ Tenn State Nashville, TN @ Kennesaw St. Atlanta, GA

Jax State’s Siran Neal Drafted by Bills

Alabama Draft Recap Player

JSU 2018 SCHEDULE

UA PHOTO

Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver Chadarius Townsend in action during the 2018 A-Day game.

ALABAMA 2018 SCHEDULE September 1 September 8 September 15 September 22 September 29 October 6 October 13 October 20 October 27 November 3 November 10 November 17 November 24

Louisville Arkansas State @ Ole Miss Texas A&M LA Lafayette @ Arkansas Missouri @ Tennessee OPEN @ LSU Miss State The Citadel Auburn

Orlando, FL Tuscaloosa Oxford, MS Tuscaloosa Tuscaloosa Fayetteville, Ark. Tuscaloosa (HC) Knoxville, TN Baton Rouge, LA Tuscaloosa Tuscaloosa Tuscaloosa

Siran Neal became the 10th Jacksonville State player ever taken in the NFL Draft on Saturday, when the Buffalo Bills selected him in the fifth round.

The 6-foot-1, 205-pound Neal was taken by the Bills with their fifth-round pick, the 154th overall in the 2018 NFL Draft. He becomes the first Gamecock taken since Alan Bonner’s sixth-round selection by the Texans in 2013. Neal is the highest drafted JSU player since Eric Davis went to the 49ers in the second round in 1990.

Neal was a First Team All-American by the AFCA as a senior in 2017, his first career All-America honor after another dominant performance on the JSU defense. The senior from Eufaula, Ala., grabbed his second-straight First Team All-Ohio Valley Conference mention in 2017 despite changing positions before his senior campaign.

An All-OVC linebacker at the nickel position in 2016, his move to corner in 2017 saw the same success.

He notched a team-best 11 pass break-ups to go along with 33 tackles and interception, despite seeing a limited number of passes thrown to his side of the field in 2017.

Neal has gained the attention of many professional scouts and parlayed that into an invitation to the prestigious Reese’s Senior Bowl.

JSU Club Seating and Parking Renewals

Football club seating and stadium parking renewals for the 2018 season began May 1.

Fans who renew their club seats by May 31 will receive a special price of $450 per ticket. Effective June 1, club ticket renewals will be available for $500 per seat. Stadium parking outside Meehan Hall can also be renewed online.” For additional help, please contact the ticket office at (256) 782-TIXX (8499) or 1-877-JSUTIXX (1-877-578-8499). The ticket office at Kennamer Hall is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

JSU will begin the 2018 campaign on August 25 with the Guardian Credit Union FCS Kickoff at Cramton Bowl against North Carolina A&T on ESPN.

May 2018

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Tennessee Sends 14 to NFL

Photo by John Kelly, UGA

UGA Bulldogs ready for second straight SEC Title

Georgia receiver Mecole Hardman (4) runs the football during the Bulldogs’ SEC Championship game against the Auburn Tigers in Mercedes Benz Stadium on Saturday, Dec. 2, 2017 in Atlanta, Ga. Georgia won the game 28-7. The Bulldogs will have a lot of talent returning this fall and the program could have the opportunity to win its second straight SEC Title.

GEORGIA 2018 SCHEDULE

September 1 September 8 September 15 September 22 September 29 October 6 October 13 October 20 October 27 November 3 November 10 November 17 November 24

Austin Peay @ S. Carolina Middle Tenn @ Missouri Tennessee Vanderbilt @ LSU OPEN Florida @ Kentucky Auburn UMASS Georgia Tech

PAGE THIRTEEN

Athens, GA Columbia, SC Athens, GA Columbia, MO Athens, GA Athens, GA Baton Rouge, LA Jacksonville, FL Lexington, KY Athens, GA Athens, GA Athens, GA

After having three Vols selected during the 2018 NFL Draft, 11 more Vols were rewarded with opportunities from NFL teams by signing free agent deals or earning training camp invitations.

Defensive back Rashaan Gaulden was the first Vol taken in the 2018 draft, going in the third round to the Carolina Panthers with the 85th overall pick. Gaulden can play cornerback, safety or nickel back in the NFL after a standout collegiate career where he proved his versatility by playing at nearly every spot in the defensive backfield. The Spring Hill, Tenn., native finished with 140 tackles, including 9.5 for loss, over 36 games with 19 starts. He had a breakout 2017 redshirt junior season, where he totaled 65 tackles to go along with three forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, six passes defended and one interception.

Tennessee Running back John Kelly and defensive tackle Kahlil McKenzie were both selected in the sixth round by the Los Angeles Rams and Kansas City Chiefs, respectively.

Kelly had a breakout junior campaign in his first year as a starter in 2017, leading the Vols in rushing (778 yards) and receptions (37) in 11 games. The Detroit, Mich., native scored nine touchdowns for the Vols and opened the season with 128 yards and four touchdowns in a double overtime win over Georgia Tech. For his career, Kelly rushed for 1,573 yards and 15 touchdowns, while averaging 4.8 yards per carry. Kelly added 43 receptions for 350 yards and played in 33 games with 12 starts. He finished with five career 100-yard games.

McKenzie had a standout junior season in 2017, making 36 tackles and four TFLs over 11 games with nine starts. A former five-star recruit from Walnut Creek, Calif., McKenzie appeared in 31 games at defensive tackle over his Tennessee career and totaled 72 stops. He had a career-high eight tackles in the season-opening double-overtime victory over Georgia Tech in 2017 and also had a five-stop game at Alabama later in the season.

Joining the three aforementioned players are 11 more former Volunteers who have either signed free agent deals or were invited to NFL training camps.

Free Agent Deals/Training Camp Invitations KR/DB Evan Berry (Cleveland Browns) P Trevor Daniel (Houston Texans) OL Brett Kendrick (Detroit Lions) LB Colton Jumper (New Orleans Saints) DB Emmanuel Moseley (San Francisco 49ers) OL Jashon Robertson (Dallas Cowboys) DL Kendal Vickers (Pittsburgh Steelers) TE Ethan Wolf (Tennessee Titans) DB Shaq Wiggins (New Orleans Saints) LB Elliott Berry (Kansas City Chiefs) WR Josh Smith (New Orleans Saints)

TENNESSEE 2018 SCHEDULE September 1 September 8 September 15 September 22 September 29 October 6 October 13 October 20 October 27 November 3 November 10 November 17 November 24

West Virgina ETSU UTEP Florida @ Georgia OPEN @ Auburn Alabama @ S. Carolina Charlotte Kentucky Missouri Vanderbilt

Charlotte, NC Knoxville Knoxville Knoxville Athens, GA Auburn, AL Knoxville Columbia, SC Knoxville Knoxville Knoxville Knoxville

Last season, the Vols had 30 players on NFL rosters – a number that is expected to increase with all of the Vols headed to training camps.

The University of Tennessee will be looking to rebuild this coming season under first year head coach and Rainsville, AL native Jeremy Pruitt. Fans will have their first official look at the 2018 team on September 1 when the Volunteers officially open the Pruitt Era against West Virginia at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. Tennessee will welcome ETSU to Neyland Stadium on September 8 for the first of eight home football games this season.

PAGE FOURTEEN

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May 2018

Kerryon Johnson among four Auburn players drafted

By Brandon K. Pierce The Sports Ledger

The Auburn Tiger football program was represented in the NFL draft, as four players were selected to continue their careers at the professional level.

Three top Tiger athletes were drafted in the second round, including running back Kerryon Johnson.

Braden Smith was the first Tiger selected this year, as the Indianapolis Colts picked up the AllSEC guard with the 37th overall pick. Smith played in 53 games at Auburn and had 41 consecutive starts.

Johnson was the 43rd overall pick and will be joining the Detroit Lions as an NFL running back.

Johnson was the 2017 SEC offensive player of the year and he gained 3,625 total

all purpose yards in 37 games at Auburn.

Carlton Davis rounded out the Auburn players taken during the second round, earning the 63rd overall pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The junior defensive back was a three-year starter at Auburn and had 36 tackles in his collegiate career.

All-time leading SEC scorer Daniel Carlson became the fourth Auburn

player drafted, when he was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the fifth round.

Carlson was a four year starter at Auburn scoring 474 points, including 92 made field goals. He was also the first AU place kicker drafted since 1977, when Neil O’Donoghue was taken by Buffalo.

Auburn will kickoff the 2018 season against Washington on Sept. 1 in Atlanta.

AUBURN 2018 SCHEDULE

September 1 September 8 September 15 September 22 September 29 October 6 October 13 October 20 October 27 November 3 November 10 November 17 November 24

Washington Atlanta, GA Alabama State Auburn LSU Auburn Arkansas Auburn Southern Miss Auburn @ Miss State Starkville, AL Tennessee Auburn @ Ole Miss Oxford, MS OPEN Texas A&M Auburn @ Georgia Athens, GA Liberty Auburn @Alabama Tuscaloosa

LSU 2018 SCHEDULE September 2 September 8 September 15 September 22 September 29 October 6 October 13 October 20 October 27 November 3 November 10 November 17 November 24

Miami, FL SE Louisiana @ Auburn Louisiana Tech Ole Miss @ Florida Georgia Miss State OPEN Alabama @ Arkansas Rice @Texas A&M

AT&T Stadium, TX Baton Rouge, LA Auburn, AL Baton Rouge, LA Baton Rouge, LA Gainesville, FL Baton Rouge, LA Baton Rouge, LA Baton Rouge, LA Fayetteville, Ark. Baton Rouge, LA College Station, TX

Photo by Brandon K. Pierce, The Sports Ledger

7 LSU PLayers DrafTed

Photo by Brandon K. Pierce, The Sports Ledger

TOUCHDOWN AUBURN

Auburn's Kerryon Johnson scores a touchdown during the Tigers game against SEC rival Mississippi State last season. Johnson is headed to the Motor City after being selected in the second round of the NFL by the Detroit Lions.

LSU running back Derrius Guice scores a touchdown in the 2018 Citrus Bowl against Notre Dame. Guice along with six other Tigers were selected to continue their careers in the NFL. The LSU players that were drated this year include: Donte Jackson, 55th, Carolina Panthers; Derrius Guice, 59th, Washington Redskins; DJ Chark, 61st, Jacksonville Jaguars; Arden Key, 87th, Oakland Raiders; Russell Gage, 194th, Atlanta Falcons; Danny Etling, 219th, New England Patriots; and Will Clapp, 245th, New Orleans Saints.

May 2018

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PAGE FIFTEEN

Snead State Student Awards

Photo by Brandon K. Pierce, The Sports Ledger

Mississippi State's Hunter Bradly (43) and his teammates get ready for a play this past season.

Four Miss State players drafted

Lifelong dreams were fulfilled for four Mississippi State players in the 2018 NFL Draft. Offense lineman Martinas Rankin, tight end Jordan Thomas, snapper Hunter Bradley and punter Logan Cooke will all be continuing their careers at the professional level.

Rankin was selected in the third round by the Houston Texans. Thomas joined fellow draftee Rankin, as he was also drafted by the Texans’ in the sixth round.

The 6-foot-6 Thomas impressed scouts with his size and versatility, illustrating his ability at tight end or on the outside. He caught 22 passes for 263 yards and three touchdowns as a senior.

Bradley was the only true snapper selected in the entire draft, and he is the only true snapper to be drafted in the SEC since at least 2000. The MSU graduate came off the board with pick No. 239 in round seven. Bradley’s triumphant story includes overcoming an injury earlier in his career and completing every snap of his career successfully.

“It’s a dream come true,” Bradley said. “Being a long snapper, it’s not something that happens often. I’m just thankful and blessed to be one of those selected to be drafted by an organization like the Packers.”

Eight picks later his special teams teammate, Cooke was chosen with pick No. 247 in the seventh round by the Jacksonville Jaguars. Cooke is the first true punter in State history to be selected in an NFL Draft, and he is the first Bulldog to ever be chosen by the Jaguars in a draft.

He ranked seventh in Bulldog history with a 41.7 career average.

MSU’s four total draft picks tied for fifth-most in the SEC in 2018, behind Alabama (11), LSU (7), Georgia (6) and Florida (5).

Snead State Community College recently highlighted the end of the Spring semester with special recognition of the colleges students and their academic achievements.

Snead State Community College Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Annette Cederholm, presented the President’s Awards, on behalf of President Dr. Robert Exley, to a student majoring in an academic field and a student pursuing a technical field of study. The Academic Award went to Ginny K. Hester of Boaz, and the Technical Award went to Megan D. Derums of Guntersville.

The Dean’s Award, presented by Dr. Cederholm, was given to James Brown of Birmingham and Mackenzie Pope of Crossville in the academic field, and Dylan Kelley of Union Grove in the technical field.

Other college award recipients included: Accounting: Ashlyn Bowling of Albertville; AllAlabama Academic Team members: Alexandra “Lexie” Blackstone and Joy Grace Webb, both of Albertville; Biology: Shayan Pramani of Gadsden; Business: Alexandra “Lexie” Blackstone of Albertville and Sarah Gibson of Huntsville; Applied Business: Destiny Coleman of Scottsboro; Computer Science: David Doby of Guntersville and Roland Pointer of Albertville; Economics: Dusty Blakely of Albertville; English: Payton Youngblood of Birmingham and Joy Grace Webb of Albertville; History: Joseph Seth Cason of Boaz; Industrial Systems Technology: Michael Vaughn of Gadsden; Mathematics: Sophomore Award: Matthew Wade of Boaz. Freshman Award: Cody Parris of Fyffe; Music: Best All Around Music Student: Kody Martinez of Boaz; Nursing: Highest GPA in First Level RN: Deborah Saye of Guntersville; Highest GPA in Second Level RN: Penny Tyree of Holly Pond; Clinical Excellence First Level: Shelly Butler of Boaz; and Clinical Excellence Second Level: Kris Williamson of Attalla; and Political Science: Angela Barajas-Salcido of Boaz.

Some students continuing their education at other institutions were awarded scholarships. The scholarship recipients included: Alabama A & M University: Anna Blalock of Crossville.

Athens State University: Charisma Bowen of Crossville, Haley Bradley of Crossville, Jeremy Bryan of Crossville, Tony Cassels of Albertville, Kristen Cornelius of Oneonta, Christina Domingo of Albertville, Matthew Fox of Albertville, Kailey Frachiseur of Horton, Savannah Gladden of Gadsden, Ashley Gomez Perez of Clinton, NC, Emarald Greer of Sardis, Makayla Griffith of Attalla, Cati Harris of Arab, Darby Huguley of Arab, Pedro Martinez of Guntersville, Robyn McElrath of Albertville, Cortnie Montgomery of Sardis, Caitlin Peppers of Horton, Cailyn Reed of Union Grove, Kyle Rusk of Crossville, Chelsey Stevens of Crossville, Morgan Stinson of Hartselle, Michael Wilder of Guntersville, Hannah Williams of

Boaz, and Odessa Williamson of Union Grove.

Auburn University: Kaitlyn Dendy of Arab, Haley Howard of Gurley, Ryan Howell of Guntersville, and Matthew Wade of Boaz.

Jacksonville State University: Alexandra “Lexie” Blackstone of Albertville, Haley Dayton of Gadsden, Madelyn Gazaway of Boaz, Kayla Kean of Albertville, Icelda Tovar-Beltran of Oneonta, Courtney Wright of Attalla, Jewellia Ard of Albertville, Joshua Bailey of Crossville, Ashlyn Bowling of Albertville, Cloie Bridges of Guntersville, Johnna Britt of Guntersville, Benson Bryant of Albertville, Sarah Anne Burns of Boaz, Sabryn Chandler of Leesburg, Rebekah Currier of Union Grove, Carsen Daniel of Albertville, Joshua Dismuke of Boaz, Pierce Elkins of Albertville, Savannah Gladden of Gadsden, Lillian Hawkins of Crossville, Abigail Hotalen of Guntersville, Tori Johnson of Boaz, Ashly Kent of Albertville, Jessica Lee of Boaz, Brenda Lopez-Antonio of Albertville, Herminia Martinez of Albertville, Toran McDaniel of Crossville, Taylor Murphree of Arab, Makenley Payne of Boaz, Jacob Phillips of Altoona, Andrew Shaw of Alexandria, Kaylin Whisenant of Union Grove, Kayla Booth of Albertville, Charity Graham of Dawson, Allison Jennings of Oneonta, Moises Luna of Albertville, Danielle Hodge of Gadsden, Sophia Ragland of Gadsden, Sabryn Chandler of Leesburg, and Madison Cornelius of Oneonta.

Samford University – Joy Grace Webb of Albertville.

Tuskegee University: Kennedi Lomax of New Market.

University of Alabama: Alexandra “Lexie” Blackstone of Albertville, Erin Davis of Arab, Haley Howard of Gurley, Lauren Whisenant of Arab, Matthew Wade of Boaz, and Sara Alaine Reese of Guntersville.

UAB: Alison Deweese of Steele, Shayan Pramani of Gadsden, Eric Logan Wilborn of Boaz, Ana Soriano of Albertville, Braxton Hart of Gadsden, Cameron Pittenger of Arab, and Dallas Rowland of Valley Head.

UAH: Robert Altman of Grant, Jewellia Ard of Albertville, Elijah Baker of Guntersville, Sarah Anne Burns of Boaz, Jean-Pierre Castellon of Albertville, Jacob Cherry of Snead, Lilly Childress of Boaz, Zachary Dorsett of Guntersville, Carleigh Dyar of Arab, Karli Eidson of Boaz, Torie Garner of Florence, John Gunnels of Albertville, Amy Helton of Arab, Ryan Howell of Guntersville, Jessica Kelley of Attalla, Courtney McClaffin of Huntsville, Toran McDaniel of Crossville, Caleigh Morrow of Arab, David Palmer of Ashville, Joshua Shaddix of Ohatchee, Taylor Statum of Huntsville, Emily Terrell of Albertville, Sierra Tidwell of Arab, Connor Todd of Albertville, Bethany Trainor of Boaz, and Matthew Wade of Boaz.

Montevallo: Rebekah Currier of Union Grove, Timothy Senn of Opelika, and Sierra Tidwell of Arab.

PAGE SIXTEEN

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May 2018

Fyffe Duo Earns Ledger Leader Honors

Tucker Goolesby Fyffe High School Junior Tucker Goolesby has been named a 2018 Ledger Leader by The Sports Ledger.

Goolesby is a basketball star for the Red Devils and he plays varsity football. With a 3.79 GPA he is a member of the Beta Club and a dual enrollment student. Additionally, he is an accomplished and certified welder, winning 1st place in the District Welding competition and 1st place in the Drake State Welding competition.

Alyssa Morris With a prefect 4.0 GPA Alyssa Morris has also been selected as a 2018 Ledger Leader. The junior class leader is a Dual Enrollment student, member of the Beta Club, Spanish Club, FCCLA, and Teens for Their Future.

Morris also excels at both softball and basketball and she is a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She volunteers at the County Animal Adoption Center.

Photo Courtesy of James Williamson

FYFFE CLASS OF 2018 - The Class of 2018 at Fyffe High School will be graduating on May 22 at 7.p.m. The school’s senior awards night is set for May 15 at 7 p.m. at the Freedom Seven Center. Baccalaureate is May 20 at 6 p.m. at Fyffe Church of God.

Boaz Names 2018 Valedictorian and Salutatorian

The Boaz High School Class of 2018 will be graduating on May 24, 2018 on the high school football field.

Leading the class this year will be Valedictorian Sara Herman.

Sara is the daughter of Matthew and Amanda Herman of Boaz. Sara has completed several dual enrollment classes at Snead State Community College and due to her high GPA at Snead she has been inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa honor society.

Sara holds several leadership roles at Boaz High School. She is the President of the Student Government, President of the Future Business Leaders of America, Treasurer of the National Honor Society, and Vice-President of the Environmental Club. In addition, Sara is a member of Rho Kappa (an honor society for students that

excel in Social Studies, the Spanish Club, the Art Club, Mu Alpha Theta (an honor society for students who excel in mathematics), and the Diamond Dolls (a group that helps support the BHS baseball team).

Sara has also participated in Girls Varsity Basketball in grades 9 and 10 and Girls Varsity Tennis in grades 11 and 12.

Sara is involved in the Boaz community as well. She is a member of the Junior Ambassador program through the Boaz Area Chamber of Commerce.

She also participates with her church, First Baptist, in the D-NOW program.

Additionally, she is is the owner/operator of R & S Designs, a jewelry business she founded in June of 2017. Sara is currently employed at Old Mill Trading Company, a local boutique.

After Graduation she

plans to attend Auburn University in the fall, where she will major in Marketing. Sara has been awarded more than $50,000.00 in scholarships to attend Auburn University thus far.

The Boaz High School Salutatorian for the Class of 2018 is Miss Anna Kate Beck. She is the daughter of Chris and Amy Beck of Boaz.

Anna Kate is a founding member of the Peer Mentoring group.

This group of students helps other students who may not speak English well and therefore have a difficult time understanding their class work or students that struggle in a particular subject. Anna Kate has been exceptional with the students in this program.

Anna Kate is very involved in school activities as well. She was the Class President from 20142016. She is currently the

President of the Interact Club. Anna Kate is also a member of the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, and Future Business Leaders of America.

Anna Kate has been a member of the Boaz High School varsity cheer team for four years. The cheerleaders won back to back state and regional championships all four years. They were fifth in

the nation in her junior year and this year they were second in the nation.

Anna Kate is also active in the Boaz community.

She is a member of the Junior Ambassador program through the Boaz Area Chamber of Commerce.

She is also a member of the Junior Civitans. Anna Kate has been active in the United Methodist Youth

Fellowship as well.

Additionally, she been a lifeguard during the summer at the Boaz Recreation Center.

She plans to attend Snead State Community College in the fall where she has been awarded the Presidential Scholarship, covering her full tuition for two years. Anna Kate then plans to transfer to Auburn University to pursue a

May 2018

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Guntersville Native gets 300th hit at JSU

Senior Clayton Daniel recently became the second baseball player of all-time at Jacksonville State to accumulate 300 career hits and the fourth player of alltime in Ohio Valley Conference history.

Despite his historic night, the Gamecocks fell to in state rival Troy 8-2. The Trojans claimed both games of the home-and-home two game season series against the Gamecocks. Jax State fell to Troy, 16-13, in early April at Choccolocco Park in Oxford.

Daniel was the lone Gamecock to have multiple hits as they were limited to seven hits in the setback.

The Guntersville, Alabama infielder ranks fourth all-time in the league and ranks behind former Jax State standouts Bert Smith (323), Richie Rodriguez (303) and Kenton Parmley (302). Daniel had a single in the second and the 300th hit came in the ninth inning.

PAGE SEVENTEEN

Ledbetter Retires as Head Coach at SSCC

Photo by Brandon K. Pierce, The Sports Ledger

LEADING KNIGHT - Arab’s Alexis Hyatt (6)

makes a play in the 2017 State Volleyball Tournament.

Hyatt is one of several statewide players selected for the 2018 North-South Volleyball All-Star Game.

ALBERTVILLE SOFTBALL - The Albertville softball team took time for a photo after enjoying a team lunch at Jessie’s Cafe. The lady Aggies were getting ready to play in the Class 6A Area 14 tournament in Fort Payne.

The end of an era has come to the baseball program at Snead State Community College with Gerry Ledbetter’s retirement after 26 seasons as head coach.

“I feel blessed to have been given the chance to work with such outstanding players, parents, coaches, teachers and administrators throughout my time at Snead State,” said Ledbetter.

Looking back at his tenure, Ledbetter said one of his most memorable moments came several seasons ago when the Parsons were playing Bevill Sumiton.

“We had taken the lead in the 10th inning. In Bevill’s last at bat, a kid hits a bomb to left field and yells ‘see ya’.

It seemed like my left fielder hung in the air forever, but he caught that ball over the fence. Our team carried him off the field.”

During his high school career, Ledbetter played football, baseball and basketball for the Boaz Pirates. He graduated in 1965 and signed a baseball scholarship to Jacksonville State University.

During his prime Ledbetter was one of two JSU players to be named to the NAIA Little All-American Team. As a center-fielder, he helped the Gamecocks advance to the Alabama Collegiate Conference Tournament three times.

All three years, Gerry was named to the All-Alabama Collegiate Conference Team. In his Little All-American year, he excelled on defense in centerfield and batted .406 for the season. He hit .320 or better each of the four years he played at JSU, a record.

After graduating from JSU, Ledbetter taught and coached at Sardis High School. He coached football, baseball, basketball and track for two years before moving to Cleburne County High School for one year, where he coached football, basketball and baseball.

Desiring to move back closer to his roots, he took a teaching/coaching job at Douglas High School in 1972 and coached there until 1992. His DHS Varsity Boys Basketball team won the Area Tournament four years and finished in the finals three additional years. He also coached football and initiated a new varsity baseball program while at DHS.

In 1992, Ledbetter became head baseball coach at Snead State. During his tenure at Snead, he has had 11 players sign professional contracts and well over 200 players sign four-year scholarships.

“Snead has been good to me,” said Ledbetter. “Now more than ever, the College does a good job emphasizing athletics. It makes it a lot of fun for the coaches.”

Ledbetter has more than 600 wins as the Parsons’ skipper and he was inducted into the Marshall County Sports Hall of Fame in 2010, the Alabama Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2016 and the Alabama Community College Conference Hall of Fame in 2017.

In 2017, he received the Snead State Alumni Association’s Distinguished Service Award.

PAGE EIGHTEEN

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May 2018

Chancellor to speak at NACC Graduation

Northeast Alabama Community College’s 52nd graduation ceremony will take place at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 17, 2018, at the Northeast Alabama AgriBusiness Center in Rainsville. The keynote speaker this year is Mr. Jimmy H. Baker, Chancellor of the Alabama Community College System.

Mr. Baker is a native of Coffee County, Alabama.

He attended high school in New Brockton, and later earned a BS degree in Business Administration from Troy University. He earned a graduate degree in Economics and Education Administration and an Education Specialist degree from Auburn University, where he was also certified in school administration. He served for six years in the U.S. Army Reserves.

Professionally, he has taught history and social studies at the high school level; coached football and basketball at Daleville High School; served as Assistant Superintendent, and Superintendent of Education for the Daleville Board of Education; and Superintendent of the Coffee County Board of Education. In 1979, he was appointed to serve as the State of Alabama’s Assistant State Superintendent of Education of Finance, and served in that role for four years.

After serving as president of an investment banking firm, Mr. Baker managed the gubernatorial campaign for Governor Fob James. He was appointed as State Finance Director from 1994-95, where he developed and assisted in the passage of the funding formula known as the Foundation Program. Later, he was appointed as Deputy State Superintendent of Education to implement the new funding program. He returned to the Finance Department as Director during Gov. James’ administration, after successful implementation of the program.

After joining the Alabama Community College System, first serving as governmental affairs consultant, he was appointed Chief of Staff in January 2016. Mr. Baker was appointed as acting chancellor of the Alabama Community College System in August of 2016. On March 15, 2017, he was named Chancellor of the Alabama Community College System.

He is married to Joy, a retired teacher, and they are the parents of two daughters and proud grandparents to four grandchildren.

While far more students graduate with associate degrees from Northeast each year, this year over 212 will participate in the graduation ceremony. Another 367 graduates (including summer 2017, fall 2017, and spring 2018) not participating will receive degrees.

Not only will graduates receive their diplomas on this special evening, but the college’s outstanding students and faculty member will be recognized as well and The NACC Chorus and Concert Band will perform.

This graduation ceremony is open to the public.

2017-18 DeKalb All-County Football Players

May 2018

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Plainview Ledger Leaders

IDER GRADUATION

The Class of 2018 at Ider High School will be graduating on May 24 at 6.p.m. The school’s senior night is set for May 22.

SILVER SCHOLAR

NCAA student Lizeth Ramirez, was recently named a 2018 Coca-Cola Academic Team Silver Scholar and will receive a $1,250 scholarship.

PAGE NINETEEN

Hawes Chosen as Most Outstanding Faculty Member at NACC

Jeff Hawes, Instructor of English at Northeast Alabama Community College (NACC), has been chosen as the Dr. Charles M. Pendley Founders Chair Most Outstanding Faculty Member for 2017-2018. The announcement was made recently by the Founders Chair Committee at a college luncheon held in his honor. Some of those celebrating the accomplishment were: David Beddingfield, Committee Member; Barbara Cole, Committee Member; Lallie Leighton, Committee Member; Joyce Kennamer, Committee Chair; Committee Member; Jeff Hawes, Most Outstanding Faculty Member; Dr. David Campbell, NACC President; and Pat Freeman, Committee Member.

2017-18 DeKalb All-County Cheerleaders

Plainvew Junior Ashley Spigner is one of this year’s Ledger Leader recipients. He is a multi-sport star for the Bear’s athletic program, playing both Football and Baseball. This past season he was selected to the AllCounty football team and was named an offensive lineman of the year.

With a 3.95 GPA, Spigner is also a leader in the classroom. He is a HOBY representative and the Plainview Boys State Representative.

Junior Classmate Jayla Gravitt has also been selected for the annual Ledger Leader awards presented by The Sports Ledger. She has a 3.95 GPA and she is enrolled as a Dual Enrollment Student at Northeast Alabama Community College.

Additionally, Gravitt is a member of the Side Kicks Program that partner with special needs students at Plainview and she is a volunteer for Race to Embrace.

When she is not volunteering or studying, Jayla enjoys playing softball and she is a member of the Lady Bears Varsity softball team.

PAGE TWENTY

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May 2018

NACC Sigma Kappa Delta Attends International Convention

Section Varsity Cheerleaders

Earlier this year the Sigma Kappa Delta (SKD) officers and English faculty members from Northeast Alabama Community College (NACC) traveled to Cincinnati, Ohio, to attend the International English Honor Society’s annual convention. Those traveling to the event are shown to the right: (Front) Audrey Carroll, Jennifer Fant, Lindsay Higdon, Evan Tucker, Juan Contreras; (Back) Jeff Hawes, Joan Reeves, Joan Tucker and Jody Ragsdale.

Ider duo attends Leadership Academy

Meagan Seals is the Cheer Captain at Ider High and she is a 2018 Ledger Leader recipient.

She has attended the Capstone Leadership Academy at the University of Alabama and she is a basketball player for Ider.

In addition to athletics, Meagan has a perfect 4.0 GPA. She is member of the Beta Club, FCA and Meagan Seals Skills USA. Jacob Higdon is also a 2018 Ledger Leader. Like his junior classmate, Higdon excels academically. Jacob has a 4.0 GPA and he also attended the Capstone Leadership Academy at the University of Alabama.

He is a JSU Emerging Leader, Alabama Boy’s State Representative, Beta Club member and an FCA Jacob Higdon Athlete of the Year. He participates in the FFA and plays both Basketball and Football at Ider.